International Compliance Association (ICA) Home Inspector Practice Exam

Which type of beams can carry greater loads over longer spans?

1. Solid sawn wood

2. Engineered glulam beams

3. Composite materials

4. Steel beams

The correct answer is: Engineered glulam beams

Engineered glulam beams are designed specifically to carry greater loads over longer spans compared to other types of beams. They consist of layers of wood laminations that are bonded together, allowing for enhanced strength and stability. This construction method produces beams that can effectively distribute loads and resist bending, making them ideal for architectural designs that require open spaces without intermediate support. The ability to leverage engineered materials advances their performance characteristics beyond what solid sawn wood can achieve, as solid wood may be limited by natural defects, such as knots or irregular grain patterns. In contrast, while composite materials and steel beams also have their advantages, glulam beams offer versatility in both structural application and aesthetic appeal, as they can be shaped and sized to suit various architectural needs. Overall, glulam technology reflects the combination of traditional wood properties with modern engineering, resulting in beams that are especially suited for large spans and heavy loads in construction projects.